Search by Name

Robert Best Obituary

Best, Robert M.

Binghamton: Robert M. Best died on October 10, 2012. He was born in Newcomerstown, OH in 1922, the son of the late Beatrice Mulvane Best and Chester R. Best. He met his first wife, the late Roselyn Welton, when they were both students at Ohio Wesleyan University. He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Smith Best; and his family: son, Eric and wife, Ronna and their two daughters, Marissa and Leah; son, Grant and daughters, Linda and Christine, all of Binghamton. He is also survived by Shirley's family, Cynthia VanOstrand and her family, Karen (Randy) Bishop, Charles Stewart and his family, and Brenda (Richard) Smith and their family. Bob is also survived by two wonderful sisters, Martha Jane Addy and Beryl Ann Kopes, Janie's son, Tom Addy (Kelly) and family, and her daughter, Jill Little and family, and Beryl's daughters, Jane Dixon and her family, and Karen Archer (David) and family. He is also survived by four sisters-in-law, Wanda (Daniel) Chisarick, Marie (Paul) Benedict, Beverly (David) Conklin, and Miriam Smith. He was predeceased by three brothers-in-law, Fred Smith, Donald Addy, and Dr. Donald Kopes. Bob enlisted in the Navy in 1942 and was separated from active duty with the rank of Lieutenant (jg) in 1946. He continued in the active reserve until 1954. He graduated from The Ohio State University in 1947 and spent his entire working life in the insurance business, retiring from Security Mutual Life as Chairman of the Board in 1990. He also served as Chairman of two affiliated companies, Home Mutual Insurance Company and Security Equity Life Insurance Company. He served as the director of several companies, including Utica Mutual, Republic Franklin, Graphic Arts Mutual, New York Marine and General, Marine Midland Bank, Buckingham Manufacturing, and Universal Instrument Company. Bob also served the insurance industry as President of the Life Insurance Council of New York, Chairman of the Medical Index Bureau, Director of the American Council of Life Insurance, a member of the State Insurance Board, Trustee of the New York State Guarantee Corporation, and a life Trustee of the American College. He was a member of the NY Joint Labor Management Committee, the NY Commission on Insurance and Banking Regulatory Reform, Board of Governors-International Insurance Seminars, and the Chairman of the NY Business Council Insurance Fund. He served his community as President of the Broome County Chamber of Commerce, President of the State Chamber, and a founding Director of the New York State Business Council. He was the founding Chairman of the Harpur Forum, Chairman of the Broome County Performing Arts Center, Director of the Tri-Cities Opera, Director of United Health Services, Director of Roberson Center, a member of Binghamton University Council, President of UHS Foundation, a founding Director of Broome Community Charities and a member of the State Board of Regents. He was a member of Trinity Memorial Church and its vestry, the Binghamton Club, the Putting Academy, the 21 Club, and the Oteyowka Club. He was a past member of the Binghamton Country Club, Binghamton Rotary Club, and the University Club of New York. He was honored as a 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason in 1975. He has received the Man of the Year Award from Sertoma Club, Hall of Fame Congress American Legion Post 80, State of Israel Peace Medal 1980, Huebner Gold Medal American College, and Alumni Citizenship Award from Ohio State University in 1983, Citizenship Award Binghamton University Alumni 1984, Distinguished Citizenship Award Susquehanna Council BSA, Governor's Arts Award NYS, Commitment to Community Award NYS Business Council, and Free Enterprise Award all in 1985, Distinguished Citizen's Award, SUNY Board of Trustees and Public Service Award - B'nai B'rith in 1987, University Medal - Binghamton University 1988. He will be missed by his family, friends, and the community. The family wishes to thank Laura Giannetto for her devoted and loving care for the past 18 months. A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Memorial Episcopal Church, 44 Main St., Binghamton, Friday, October 19, 2012, at 4 p.m. The Reverend Dr. David A. Drebert, Rector, will officiate. Interment will be in the family plot in Ohio at the convenience of the family. The family will receive friends in the Hoyt Room following the Memorial Service. Expressions of sympathy in memory of Bob may be made to the charity of one's choice or to the Best Cardiac Center, UHS Foundation, 33 Mitchell Ave., Binghamton, NY 13903. Arrangements are by the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main St., Binghamton, NY.

Published by Press & Sun-Bulletin from Oct. 12 to Oct. 14, 2012.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Best

Not sure what to say?





I remember my son and I being invited to Shirley and Bob's cottage. It was a wonderful day and Bob was a most gracious host, as was Shirley.

Jo Pitcher

Friend

October 6, 2019

Shirley - I don't know if you'll ever see this, but I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much you loved Bob.

JoAnne Pitcher(Gibbons)

December 27, 2012

AS former neighbors we remember Mr. Best's kindness, love of animals, and community contributions. The Van Atta Family

Van Atta

October 18, 2012

Best Family: I was truly saddened to read of Mr. Best's passing. I have fond memories of him during the time I worked at Security Mutual (1982-1997). He always treated everyone with great kindness and he was an outstanding leader, not only of the company but in our community as well. May God bless and keep you always.

Kathy (Austin) Kiekel

October 17, 2012

Dear Grant, Linda, Eric, Shirley and all of the Best family,

In the more than 35 years that I have known Bob, he has always been gracious, warm and dignified. He has been a special part of my past, and will be truly missed.

Vicki Downes Etchings

October 15, 2012

Linda, Sorry to hear of your father's passing. Over the years I would hear his name with reference to HSBC and insurance companies. I met him briefly while working on a residents in Endwell. I heard his name in such a variety of circumstances I thought there must be several Robert Bests in the community. Sympathies, John Ruth

October 14, 2012

Dearest Shirley and Family:

Please accept my hearfelt condolensces. Bob was gem of a person. He always had a smile on his face even when the exercises that he had to do were painful. I will never forget his passion for life and his unwaivering smile. Today I was looking at some pictures when you invited me and my young son to your home. He was not even 2 years old then and now he is almost six. Although time has gone by I never forgot your kindness. Bob will always be with us in our hearts. He was a gentleman, and touched the lives of everyone he encountered in such a positive and profound way. We will never forget him.

Neha D.

Neha D.

October 14, 2012

Eric and Ronna, Mr. Best was a kind and very gentle man who will be greatly missed and kindly remembered by those of us who worked at Security Mutual. Judy Delbridge

October 14, 2012

I am so sorry for your guy's loss. If you need anything my family and I are here

Samantha Difalco

October 14, 2012

Bob defined the American virtue of civic leadership. Often he was both the captain and the anchor of our ship.He was a generous and personal friend to me. I treasure our years of work together. Norma and I share our sympathy with his family
Jim Tallon

October 14, 2012

Marissa and Family, sending sympathy in the loss of Mr. Best.

Kathy Cronin

October 14, 2012

Eric, sorry to hear of the loss of your father. Jeff and I send you our best thoughts at this time. Your Dad was a true gentleman.

Kristal Dwyer

October 13, 2012

To the Bests: So sorry to read the news of Mr. Best's passing. He was a wonderful, kind, smart and generous man. He brought so much good to so many people. I'm sure you'll spend many years looking back fondly on his life and yours with him. It was a big life that was well lived.

Lisa Popolo

October 13, 2012

Eric and Family,

So very sorry to hear of your loss. May you find comfort in each other and in the wonderful memories left behind.

Mike & Bonnie Kelsey

October 13, 2012

Dearest Shirley and Family---we are so very sad for such a huge loss for all of you, but, also, so very, very lucky and blessed to have met and befriended such a magnificent man! He was truly "one of a kind" in so, so many ways, doing and caring for so many. He certainly did not have a boring life! You have been such a beautiful part of his life, and he will continue to be forever in your heart and in the hearts of those who had the privilege and honor of knowing him and being his friend! Love you & big hugs, as always!

Frank & Beverly Bertoni

October 13, 2012

We were saddened to learn of the death of Bob Best, a long time fiend and colleague. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

Dr Frank & Joyce Gilroy

October 13, 2012

Shirley and all the family. I am at a loss for words. Bob was an outstanding gentleman and friend. I feel honored to have been part of his life. I will always keep his memory alive. He had such great words of wisdom. I always had a smile on my face after our visits.

Thomasita Carlson

October 12, 2012

To Eric, Ronna and the whole Best family.

We were so sad to hear about Bob's passing. I have great respect for Bob from the years that I worked for him at Security Mutual and will always remember those years fondly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now.

Jim & Chris Mellema

October 12, 2012

I didn't know your father but he sure sounds like he was very active in the commubity. And I know you loved him. Linda Majka

October 12, 2012

Eric, Ronna, and the entire Best family:
May our prayers, and your memories, hold you up through this time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all!

Every company should be so blessed to have such a leader as Mr. Best. Security Mutual under his leadership was what it was because of him. His kindness, generosity, and caring for everyone made it a pleasure to work there at that time. To a true gentleman, Rest in peace!
Wendy Mack

Wendy Mack

October 12, 2012

Sorry for your loss.

Aixa Best

October 12, 2012

I am so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. My Uncle Tom Blauvelt was a close friend of Bob's. My sympathy to Shirley and family. I had the pleasure of working with Bob and his son Eric at Security Mutual. Eric and I were close friends for a long time. I just had a hip replacement done and won't be able to make the funeral but my thoughts are there with you.

Cathy Spring

October 12, 2012

My Sympathy to Bob's family. I was lucky enough to have the pleasure of working for Mr. Best at Security Mutual, and serving him at many special 21 club dinners. He was really an exceptional man, always kind, & generous. He will be missed by all.

Sharon Warnock

October 12, 2012

To Grant and Family
Sympathy to you and your family. Your Dad was truly a fine gentleman. Bettie G Brown

Bettie G Brown

October 12, 2012

Mrs. Best~ My heart was saddened to learn of Mr. Bests' passing. He was always so kind to me during my visits with my grandparents, Rudy & Yvonne Lawson. I hope that you will smile in the many memories you made together throughout the years. I will be praying for you and your families comfort in the days ahead. He will be missed. With heartfelt sympathy. ~Nicolle (Ferrante) Napolitano

Nicolle Napolitano

October 12, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers for the Best family.We got to know Mr. and Mrs. Best as customers when they were at the lake.He was a true gentleman.

Rick & Peg Ainey

October 12, 2012

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Kelly Shearer

October 12, 2012

Our deepest sympathy to all the family.
He was a close friend of my Dad and spent many times with all of us. He will be missed. May he be in peace.Sincerely, Judy (Lawson) Ferrante and family

Judy Ferrante

October 12, 2012

I once heard it said that we or our loved ones are taken when we are most perfect, and have touched as many lives as possible in our allotted time. Such is the case with our Friend Bob.
We first met Bob &Shirley when we became members of the Binghamton City Club many years ago. Carol and I shared many good times with Bob, Shirley throughout the years. No matter when or where we chanced to meet or who he might be with Bob always had time for a warm greeting, great handshake, or a great big hug for my Carol. I've read the Obituary and learned even more about Bob, and the many ways he helped build and support our great community. He truly was one of men that helped make this a wonderful community in which to live.
None of these however, can match the genuine honest and simple manner in which he lived his life. He lived live with values, and purpose, always willing to share his opinions and knowledge.
Carol & I were truly Blessed and honored to call Bob and Shirley friends.
Bob, lived each day by hiking his Cross up on his shoulder, treating everyone he met with respect and dignity, putting out his hand to help, and continued on his journey to his just promised reward. By now he has already stood before our Maker and I'm certain has heard those beautiful words, " Well done my good and faithful servant".
What Bob accomplished in his 90 years is not nearly as important as how he lived those 90 years and the difference he made for those blessed to know him?
Sleep well Bob, and enjoy the well deserved rewards you have been promised.
God Bless

Carol & Charlie Shiffner

October 12, 2012

may you rest in peace

Raymond Cobb

October 12, 2012

Bob was a great man and a great human being. I'll never forget our visits at the lake and all our talks over a few brews. RIP Bob, I'll miss you.

Dave Archer

Dave Archer

October 12, 2012

Eric and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. May God wrap you in his arms to comfort you. Your dad will never be forgotten, his legacy will live on. May the love of friends and "family" at Security Mutual carry you through your grief.

Margaret Semmler

October 12, 2012

The Community has lost a pillar of a man and a truley community loving person.Rest in Peace Mr. Best.

Mayor John Bertoni

October 12, 2012

Mr. Best was a wonderful & generous man who personally tirelessly touched the lives of scores of us & made this community a better place to live, work & prosper. I admired his management style & truly enjoyed working for him at Security Mutual from 1981 until his retirement. May he rest in peace.

Paul Rushanski

October 11, 2012

Showing 1 - 34 of 34 results

Make a Donation
in Robert Best's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Robert Best

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Robert's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Robert Best's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more